Good afternoon from beautiful Canyon Lake, Texas!!! The month of March (2nd) began with me having to go for an MRI. This was all a part of trying to find out the cause behind this horrible disease I have. Once we got back home we had a "house call" from a very nice mechanic that replaced the brakes on the PT. Love that kind of service. He came back 2 days later and replaced a power steering line on the truck. The PT has been running rough and he came back and tuned her up. We have never used a mobile mechanic before but we will use him again if needed, not only did he fix the problems but he was very reasonable about cost.
Sunrise in Canyon Lake
Sunset
On Wednesday the 4th I met Debi in Gruene/Gristmill. Afterwards we headed for Bealls (of course). Thursday was NOT a good day , the weather was yucky......COLD/ICE/COLD/ICE. Good day to clean out and reorganize a closet. Lee was not doing good at all. He was having a major tooth problem. Has a dentist appointment tomorrow, The tooth was infected -- so antibiotics for now. On Saturday the 7th my energy level was up so after some domestic chores I went outside to enjoy some warm sunny weather. I started chopping down an ugly bush (sitting on a stool). Tried to keep Lee down for the day because of a horrible toothache. On Tuesday the 10th I worked in the yard cleaning up that bush I cut. Lee felt a little better so he started digging away at the roots. The excessive rain we have had softened the dirt around it.....but lots and lots of roots. Another project that will be conquered.
The trip to the dentist on the 11th was NOT a good one!!! When the dentist started pulling the tooth, the tooth and bone broke. He had to cut the gum, drill out the rest of the tooth and put in stitches. OUCH!!! Longer recovery for sure. On Thursday the 12th I started painting on the iron fence some more. Kept Lee inside on meds and quiet!!!! Friday the 13th he felt like taking a ride to Walmart.......and I was the driver. You definitely learn to get around if you're doing the driving. Haven't driven much at all over the past 1-1/2 yrs because of the broken leg. At least that is getting much better.....leg and driving!! My surgeon would like to take the two plates and screws out of my leg, but that's been put on hold for obvious reasons. Will update on that issue when I can.
On the 14th I painted on the fence some more while Lee worked under the master bathroom sink. That's the one that has water damage from a busted line. Since we had to let it dry out, we decided to tackle an ugly area around out fence line. Got really tired so we called it a day. Not finished - but it sure does look better. Wouldn't even fool with it, but it's right on our property line. On Sunday the 15th we went to Debi's for the day. LOVE going to her house and have Michael and Austin there!!!
Took the truck full of items -- some go back in the RV and a couple items for Michael and Austin when they get an apartment. We got to visit with Todd, Chelsea, Ryder and Chad also. Debi treated us to a fantastic lunch. Late afternoon we headed home. We stopped at Home Depot in Dripping Springs to pick up a couple raised garden beds and dirt. Tomorrow's project for sure. Monday the 16th was a very busy day. We put the garden boxes together. Now it's ready for the veggies.
Raised Beds
Raised Beds and one of the peach trees
Allie is helping (Yeah Right)
On Tuesday it was off to the beauty shop. I had a complimentary trim on my wig. She did so good!!!! She put more shape to it. LOVE IT!!! On the way home we stopped at Home Depot to get some plants for our garden. Cucumbers, radishes, green beans, green onions, bell peppers, zucchini, tomatoes, a "mystery" plant. Finally go to planted a lemon tree!! Wednesday morning the 18th we headed to the dentist first thing to get his stitches removed, Once home we had fun playing in the dirt planting all the veggies. On Thursday we headed to Wimberley. Lee had a 6 month follow-up appointment with the eye doctor that did his cataract surgery. All is fine and dandy!! The weekend was very very busy with domestic chores. Lee made a cover for the air conditioner and I attempted to do a major clean inside and out on the PT. I moved in slow motion.....but I got 'er done. Monday the 23rd we did a major detail inside and out on the truck. Got that all cleaned up and started mowing the yard. Everything is looking so neat, green and clean.
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My new Look
Veggies are planted and growing
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With the warm weather you would not believe that the peach trees have bloomed and that we now have small peaches growing all over the 5 trees, in the garden we have one tomatoe, and small lemons on the lemon tree. Mom showed up on Monday the 23rd (beautiful butterfly). She came to check on us and let us know we're doing good and she was proud of us. Sure do miss her. Tuesday was NOT a good day at all for me. Blisters returned in my mouth and tongue. A major setback as far as I'm concerned since I'm starting my 5th month. So -- I suffer while the government takes their time studying my case. Folks - there is a serious problem with this issue. Needless to say my emotions have not been good --- and it's taking its toll on me physically. As I go forward --- I'm REALLY trying to think of the positive and NOT the negative. With the help of my doctor ...... and my husband....I think I'm making some progress. I just don't have a day when I feel good all day. I'm 'tuff.....right??? Just so glad it's warm so we can work outside. That helps me a lot. Just got to stay busy when my energy level is up. It helps Lee A LOT also!!!! It puts me in a better mood.....because I've been so bitter.
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Little Lemons
Peaches
More Peaches
Got some great news on the 15th when we were at the grocery store. Out kitchen table, chairs and a bed headboard for the other bedroom we had ordered back in February were being delivered. As soon as we got home we moved the the kitchen around, I cleaned the floor and Lee installed a ceiling fan before they got there. WOW --- beautiful beautiful beautiful!!!! On another happy note ---- the blue bonnets are starting to pop out everywhere!!!! On Friday we installed the headboard, I cleaned/washed the front porch while Lee installed a ceiling fan in the living room.
Antler Lamp
New Table (Star in the Middle)
Star Headboard
Headed out early on Saturday the 28th to the AT&T store before they get busy. Needed to settle some issues with them. WE WON!! Took Allie with us and stopped by the pet store to check out some toys that she can't tear up so easy. She has torn up just about all toys removing the squeakers?!?!? Also had her nails cut. Back home and changed into work clothes. Finished washing the front porch, then out back to start cleaning up leaves. What a mess!!! Funny thing -- none of these belong to trees in our yard. They come from the neighbors yard. Lee installed 2 more ceiling fans, he has replaced all of them in the house. We are lucky that he can do these things and we don't have to hire someone. Oh yeah he can cook also. On Tuesday the 31st we made a run into town for more medication for me. So happy to say that what they have me on now has helped greatly. Even with the setback last week -- it's better.
We did our WalMart run on Wednesday the 1st. We also drove into San Marcos to Bed, Bath & Beyond, then over to the Academy. Got Allie a little plastic pool. She loves it -- no training required at all. Sense of humor event ---- some of my facial wrinkles have disappeared. I was told one of my meds could cause what's called "moon face" --- well guess what ---- I've got it. I just WISH it would make me look younger (LOL).
Allie's Pool
Allie's Friends
Gossiping across the fence
Had an absolutely wonderful day on Friday April the 3rd. Several of our dear friends we camped with over the winters in Rockport are starting to head back home --- up north -- where it's COLD. They decided to stop in Bandera for a couple weeks. That's only about 60 miles from us, so we decided to go visit since I was having a good day. What a great dose of "medicine". We had a wonderful time visiting with them and they invited us to have a delicious lunch with them. Such great folks. Saturday the 4th was another good day. Wimberley has their market days the first Saturday of each month. We have been wanting to check it out --- so off we go. My gosh -- what a fantastic event. Sponsored by the Lion's Club with 416 vendors. Lots and lots of walking -- but that was good for both of us.
Lunch with Friends from Rockport
They are from all parts of the country
Banjo and Linda
Sunday April 5th was a glorious day!!! Finally had the energy to attend church. We both had missed it so much. The service was very uplifting. Physically I definitely did too much over the last 3 days -- but emotionally it was WONDERFUL. I definitely feel we have found our church home.
So beautiful and warm on Tuesday the 7th. The morning was cloudy so we decided to get the yard mowed and weeded. Sure do like the smaller yard, With our teamwork, it doesn't take long at all.
I ask that everyone please keep Lee and I on your prayer list. So many want updates - which I cannot give at this time. Although -- the "paperwork" didn't start until April 1st. Please pray that I'm approved and SOON!!
We love your folks and we don't feel that "thank you" is enough for all the support and encouragement you have given us both. WOW -- such a warm feeling.
Take care. Until next time.......
Another two months have past. Time just marches on!! This one begins on Friday January 2nd. Still not feeling well at all. We worked on the blog, watched some football and did a little bit of knitting. Saturday was a beautiful day. Started out at 41, but once the sun came out it got up to 66. We were both getting cabin fever so we headed outside. Worked on cleaning leaves off the patio. Lee hung out cool bird feeder we received for Christmas. Allie was even enjoying the warm weather!!! Sunday the 4th was a quiet relaxing day for us. Not up to par to attend church. Really miss that. I finished a scarf I knitted to go with my new coat. Started on a toboggan to match.
Got up on Monday the 5th to 24 degrees. And - we've got to get out in it. I have an appointment with an ENT specialist. Needless to say - the first diagnosis was incorrect. Was put on 2 new medications for 2 weeks. If not considerably better he will start aggressive testing. Tuesday the 6th was a beautiful day. Started out rather cool, but warmed up to 67. Decided to take a trip to Bealls to checked out their sale items. We both did good. Made a quick stop at Home Depot to check out ceiling lights. We want to replace the one in the hall. As of Thursday the 8th it appeared the new round of medication was working some.....I felt like I had a little bit of energy. I did some domestic chores while Lee installed the new hall light. On Wednesday the 7th we rode to Gruene. Looking for something to hang a beautiful cutting board on that Lee got for Christmas. Found some old spurs that should work great.
Saturday the 10th was not a nice day at all!!! COLD COLD COLD AND ICE!!! On Tuesday we went to the Comal County Tax Dept to apply for our Homestead Exemption. This "freezes" home owner taxes for folks over 65. Definitely took advantage of that since our taxes came in a lot lower than expected. Stopped at a bbq place called Coopers for a late lunch. GREAT FOOD!!. Once we got home Lee started working on the spurs for mounting the cutting board
Lee's New Cutting Board.
Michael and Austin came down on Friday the 16th for the weekend. After chowing down on breakfast tacos we headed out to Luckenbach and Fredricksburg. Had a grand time. GOSH - I LOVE having them here!!!! Instead of eating out for dinner -- we stopped at the store at Michael's request. He fixed an absolutely fantastic dinner for us. Reached a milestone on Sunday the 18th. It was one year ago that I was in the trauma unit at the hospital with a broken lower right leg...both bones.
Monday the 19th we headed back to the doctor. More blood work requested. It got up to 80 on Tuesday the 20th so we headed outside. We moved 2 plants, then Lee worked on sealing an area around the front porch to keep critters out. I didn't feel too bad, so I gathered my paint supplied and headed to the iron fence. Energy level is awful, but I was able to complete one more section. Lee's project required the use of a handheld Grinder. Ummmmm...a slip of the grinder - cut finger - off to Quick Care - required 2 stitches. Our 33rd wedding anniversary was Thursday January 22nd. Weather was horrible so we decided to stay in for the day. Lee fixed some ribs. Not worth going out anyway, because I'm only able to eat very soft food.
Lee's 70th birthday was Saturday the 24th. We went up to Debi's to celebrate with the family. We all went to Kobe's Japanese Steakhouse. We were also celebrating Chad's birthday which is on the 25th. Back home for ice cream cake. Back to the doctor on Monday the 26th. Very little improvement so he's going to do a couple biopsies inside my mouth (that wasn't fun). Got a call on Tuesday the 27th -- I have an Auto-Immune Disease. Anxiety over all these doctor appointments, etc. etc. I headed outside to work on that iron fence. Got the front section next to the road completed. WOW - what a difference. Looks great. Believe it or not -- these type projects are good therapy for me. Lee worked on painting some stars that will go up in the kitchen. Our Red Tips in the front yard have finally turned Red and the Peach Trees are Blooming. When we got home from a run to the store there was a Roadrunner in the front yard. I think that he was cold also. By the way we live on Roadrunner Lane. Who would have thunk it.
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Stars
Peach Trees in Bloom
Red Tips
The Front Fence is Finished
Roadrunner
Saturday the February 2nd was a very busy day. We had lace drapes in the kitchen (prior owner put them up). They just didn't go with a western themed house. So - Lee installed vertical blinds. Not only do they look better - they make the kitchen look bigger. He also installed some drapes over the master bathroom window. He had his little with him, she follows him wherever he goes. On Sunday the 8th Lee cut and installed some shelves we needed in a hall closet. I had another doctor appointment on the 10th. Put me on more aggressive meds and wanted more extensive blood work done and took another biopsy on the other side of my mouth. On Wednesday they took another "quart" of blood all of which are very sensitive - special testing required. I'm "done" for the day!!! Once I got settled in - Lee headed to the firing range to let off a little stress and to fire his new pistol that he saved and bought with his Christmas and Birthday money. He had enough that he also ordered a beautiful Hand Carved Holster set. I took some medication and headed for the couch. Decided to get back on a knitting project. That seems to help keep my mind of this junk --- and I don't swallow much at all -- which is so painful. Even though I have other issues - this is the worse!!!!! Lee ran errands for me on Thursday. I decided to make some potato salad.....hoping it would be soft enough for me to eat.
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Birthday Present
Allie is Helping
Off to the radiology center on Friday the 13th for a CT scan. All tests, etc. are back and we have a confirmed illness.....Pemphigoid Muscus Membrane Disease. Medications have been changed which took care of the sore throat. I will required 4 infusion treatments. We are in a "holding" pattern right now. My doctor has to get approval from Medicare/Insurance to start these treatments. As I ranted earlier on Facebook -- this is totally unacceptable. I have a very serious disease -- I'm starting my 4th month of this junk!!! There was a "funny" for the day. It's mating season for skunks. Well -- 19 of them did a happy dance on the road - now they're road kill. This was just between our house and the imaging office (about 30 miles). Sure will clear up your sinuses.
On Saturday the 14th I had a "tad" more energy for a couple hours. I cherish as much as I can get!!!! Finally felt like finishing up my toboggan. Really bad weather arrived on Monday....cold and windy. Guess we shouldn't complain. We're better off than a lot of folks. We are having Directv installed today. Lee helped the guy out while I defrosted the freezer. I would say the afternoon will be checking out some movies and taking a nap. On Thursday we had to go get Lee a new phone. Of course, he got the fancy one. Too advanced for me. IPhone 6 Plus. We also had to get another TV for the Hobby Room and decided to get a Smart TV for the living room and change them around so that we can watch Netflix and Amazon Prime. Oh yeah he had to get a larger one (TV) that is. I must say that it does make a difference.
Friday the 20th we went to one of our favorite furniture store and picked out some living room furniture. Recliner and love seat was delivered Saturday. Couch should be here in a week or so. Debi came down on Saturday the 21st for the weekend. Her and I went to Greue Market Days. Then she surprised me. This disease is making me lose my hair. She had searched for a wig place before she came down. Ended up purchasing me a wig. OMG - I was so excited. Had a problem stopping the tears. Of course - we couldn't go home without going to Bealls. Michael came down for the day to help Lee out with some computer stuff. Austin was sick so he didn't come down. I can't be around anyone with even the sniffles anyway since the last medication lowers my immune system.
Linda's Sister Debi
Sunday night we get all settled in for the evening ---- when a water line burst in the master bathroom. Water was everywhere! We finally got the mess cleaned up and back to bed after midnight. Like we really need another issue. Lee ran some errands for us on Monday. When he got home an end table had arrived that we had ordered. We spent the afternoon putting it together. Looks great!!! Tuesday the 24th was another doctor appointment. The new meds are making a slight difference so she increased those again. The rheumatology office called to set up an evaluation appointment which was on Thursday. Had a very extensive evaluation ---- oh -- and MORE blood work. The doctor said he would submit the letter of approval by Friday at the latest. Now -- we wait. I just HOPE and PRAY there will be no problem with this approval. I will NOT get better until I get these infusions.
I want to THANK everyone from the bottom of my heart for all the kind words, prayers and encouragement. Please keep Lee and I both on your prayer list.
Until next time.......take care
Surprise! Our blog has returned. Yes (Roger,Andy and Brian) I'm really late, but due to being sick the month of December I sure didn't feel like getting on the computer. We begin this on on Wednesday November 5th. Lots of rain today so I cleaned out some old files and they we watched some movies we had taped. It only got to 57 today with more rain tomorrow --- but that's ok. We REALLY need the rain. Lots more rain on Thursday, but beautiful sunshine and warm weather on Friday. Took advantage of some coupons and went to do some Christmas shopping on Saturday the 8th. We had heard there would be a major bike ride in our area today and tomorrow. Thinking a few hundred --- WRONG -- There were THOUSANDS! Had an issue with traffic getting out of our area because they were given the right of way. Once we got past a major intersection we were good to go. Once we got back home Lee and Allie headed for the recliner and I headed for the couch for an afternoon of football and the race.
Sawing Logs
On Sunday the 9th we went back to the Methodist church we like. I definitely think we found a great church. Very uplifting and positive. We had such a good feeling when we left there this morning. Monday the 10th ---- long story short ----- prayers have been answered. Michael and Austin will be moving to Texas the 28th of November. We are all so excited!!! They will be staying in our RV in Debi's backyard until they can find an apartment.
I finally made it outside to paint on the iron fence. Was hoping Lee could use the sprayer today, but we had winds at 25 - 30 mph. Wanted to get back out on the fence project on the 11th, but the cold weather that was suppose to come tomorrow arrived today. Plus we had winds gusting 30 - 35 mph. A bit cool to play in the yard. On Thursday the 13th went grocery shopping, but we also went to the pet store to find Allie a sweater. The cold weather did NOT ignore us again -- low 30's high in the 40's. She does not like to be cold....but then she's so small and skinny. Major cleaning day on the Friday the 14th. Debi and Tammy (the neighbor) are coming down tomorrow for the weekend. Needless to say Saturday was a fun day with them!!! Went to Gruene for market days. After checking out all the vendors (and purchasing the famous bbq sauce) we headed to the Gristmill for lunch (meeting up with another friend Becky). After checking out several shops, we headed to Bealls. It was a cold wet day....but we had a blast. This weather we're having is NOT typical Texas weather for sure. Like someone said --- someone left the door open up north. While we were playing Lee prepared a great dinner for us. Then it was comfy clothes and relax our tired bodies. Sunday the 16th was a lazy morning for all of us. After breakfast the gals headed home, while Lee and I kicked backed and did our usual -- football and the race.

Allie loves the fireplace
New Sweater
Before
After
On Monday the 17th we went to the RV early. Lee drained all the lines due to the cold weather. We had a lot of stored in it, so I worked getting those totes loaded in the truck. Gotta get it cleaned out for the guys. Will go back later in the week to finish up. A bit sad today.....it was 3 years ago that we lost mom. Doesn't seem like that long at all!!! Wednesday the 19th was errand day -- meat market, Target & Walmart. That evening a family of deer showed up. GOSH - they're beautiful. Miss Allie thought she should run them off. SO FUNNY!! I thought they would run off when she approached the fence barking.....but no....they just stared her down. Big deer versus 5 lb dog -- no competition. On Thursday the 20th we went to the grocery store and Home Depot for a few items. Upon our return home...we had to wait on a deer to get out of the driveway before we could pull in. Got to be very cautious this time of year -- they're everywhere. We were able to get outside in the afternoon to trim some flowers/bushes that were dead.

8 pointer
Lot's of Meat
Saturday the 23rd was a good day to stay indoors. Lots and lots of thunderstorms. A day for domestic chores and football. On Monday the 24th we went back to the RV to empty out the rest of our stuff that we had stored in it. Lee loaded up the 5th wheel hitch so he could get it reattached to the truck this week. We also started setting things out that we would need when we head to Debi's Friday. Tuesday we headed to WalMart for a printer. Things are NOT suppose to break down around the holidays!! When we got home we started putting up some of the Christmas decorations. A bit early -- but my excuse -- wanted to make sure the lights work. Got the truck filled up with diesel on Wednesday the 26th (thank goodness the prices are down since the truck was empty and she needed 74 gallons). Also picked up some Bucee nuts for Michael and Austin (one of their favorites). Took the long way back home through Gruene. Wanted to check out the General Store for western Christmas ornaments. They have the coolest stuff!!!
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Candy Canes on the Fence
Before at 3 Mos.
After 18 Years
Christmas Village
Western Christmas Tree
Penguin's on Parade
Thursday the 27th --- Happy Thanksgiving!!! Got the turkey in the oven and took a load of stuff to the RV (our personal stuff we would need for the weekend). Thought I should explain that since we had been cleaning it out. Finished up the day with an outstanding Thanksgiving dinner. On Friday the 28th packed the truck with the remaining items and headed to storage to hook up the RV, then it was off to Debi's. It was quite a challenge getting her backed in Deb's yard.....but all is well. Michael and Austin were to head to Texas today. Didn't get as early a start that they wanted to.....but main thing...they were on their way to their new home....TEXAS!! Saturday morning the 29th, Debi and I started early getting the inside of the RV cleaned, while Lee washed the outside. Dang -- she was dirty. Looks great now!! We got GREAT news. The guys were able to go a lot further than anticipated. Excitement was at all time high, because we knew that they would arrive sometime tonight. I was so glad we had a lot to do --- it made the day go much faster for us (guess I should say me especially). THEY ARRIVED AT 8:00 PM. We had set up chairs in the cul-de-sac to wait their arrival. After all the hugs and kisses, Michael opened up the back of the U-Haul where dozens of Krystals and chili pups awaited everyone. OH MY GOSH ---- wonderful wonderful wonderful.
They're Here and Brought Krystal's
After breakfast on Sunday the 30th we all headed to storage to empty the U-Haul. Had LOTS of help from family and the neighbor, so it didn't take us long at all. Needless to say Michael was VERY EXCITED to get the truck turned in. Debi wanted to do Thanksgiving dinner again to celebrate their arrival that afternoon. Super idea!!! We definitely had so much to be thankful for. Debi headed back to work on Monday December 1st. We started packing up our stuff. Had a wonderful morning visit with Michael and Austin. They had several errands to run, so we headed home so they could get busy. What a fun filled weekend. We're all still in shock with the turn of evens of them becoming Texans. It's so neat to know that they're just "up the road" from us.
Tuesday the 2nd was NOT a good day. Lee was sick.....a horrible stomach problem. Sent him back to bed. It had been a while -- but I attempted to make some potato soup for him (turned out good). By Saturday the 6th very little was going on because both of us have been very sick. Lee was a lot better, but not me. Long story short --- I thought I had a cold. After treating it -- and getting worse I went to the doctor. Horrible throat and mouth virus (can't come up with reason). Lost my voice -- which was not funny for sure...so painful. Put on several medications.
As of Tuesday the 9th - due to illnesses we have accomplished very little. Allie has learned to use the doggy doors (whoopie). That was a big deal because she was afraid of the noise they made. Lee is fine now, but not me. We move on to Thursday the 18th. This is the first day I've felt like updating anything....but just making notes only. My infection was worse than expected, Lee took me to the Dr. and they put me on stronger medication. Still don't have my voice back. Trying to figure if Lee is enjoying the quiet time, hmmm I'm HOPING this junk doesn't permanently damage my voice. Got out of the house on the 10th for some last minute Christmas items. Felt good to be out, but it wore me out. My afternoon nap was wonderful. On Monday the 22nd I had Lee take me to Cabelas. Used my Christmas money to buy a lamp I wanted which they had for 1/2 price. Was going to stop at the store on the way home, but you couldn't find a parking place. We got up real early on the 23rd for that trip....which was a good move. After a nap, I made some rice krispy treats to take to Debi's on Thursday.The 24th I made potato salad and a ham to take also. Debi sent me some flower's to make me feel better and they helped.
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Flower's From Debi
Thursday the 25th -- MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!! What a wonderful day. What a feeling to drive up to her house with Michael standing in the yard waiting on us. Had a great day with all the family and a wonderful lunch. We headed back home late that afternoon. Wasn't feeling too good, but I was also totally exhausted from all the excitement of having Michael and Austin here also --- for good!!!!
Friday and Saturday the 26th & 27th we spent some time taking down Christmas decorations. Will have to work on the outside ones later due to the cold, wet & windy day. Monday the 29th -- back to the doctor, not improving much. Again - long story short. This junk usually clears up within 10-14 days. Doctor is concerned. Was put on heavier medication and I'm being sent to an ENT (which is scheduled for Monday the 5th). Prayers -- please!! As of the 31st -- new meds are helping!!!
January 1st --- HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! Ours was very peaceful. A very positive note --- during the past month my leg has gotten A LOT better!!!! Prayers have been answered there for sure!!
That's about it for now. We wish everyone a very happy and healthy 2015.
Take care! Until next time............